The bubble report

Greetings!

As the calendar draws ever closer to December 25th, so do all the holiday parties, get-togethers and family events. We have found in our family that: 1. Wine makes the holiday family gatherings much more pleasant and 2. There are many of us in our clan that enjoy a little sparkle in our vino.

And as many of you know,I need no excuse to open a bottle of bubbles and they are rapidly becoming my drink of choice. While some may think that bubbly is just for toasts or special occasions, I would beg to differ.

If you're having a great day, a glass or two sparkling wine is a great way to celebrate. If you're having a bad day, then there's something cheerful and uplifting about seeing all those tiny bubbles floating their way to the top of the glass. Plus, they're great to have on hand should friends or family drop by!

Unfortunately, many people's first experience with sparkling wine or champagne was either when they first started drinking or at a wedding or other party that served something way too dry or just poor quality. 

Now granted, for a long time the only good bubbles were expensive bubbles, but I am happy to report that for quite a while that is no longer the case. And many of the $10 bottles are great just by themselves, just because!

I've listed below a few of my favorites:
(if you click on the name of the wine it will take you to a site to provide more information)

Don't let the price fool you - these are excellent
Freixenet Cordon Negro Extra Dry  - This is one of my all-time year-round favorites. It's not as dry as brut, but not as sweet as their Carta Nevada Semi-dry, yet it yields wonderful stone fruit and green apple flavors with a touch of creaminess. Normally around $10 to $12 a bottle. Everything from Freixenet is quite tasty and affordable.

Segura Viudas Brut Reserva - Again, one of my all-time favs. Their brut is great alone or mixed as part of a champagne cocktail. When I worked at Great Wines and Spirits, this was always a staff favorite and our standard recommendation if you need to buy it in quantity. Normally around $9 to $12 a bottle. All their veriations are awesome!
NOTE: if you are looking for a great gift for a wine drinker, they make a Reserva Heridad that's about $24 that comes in a beautiful bottle!

So pretty in pink!
Aria Pinot Noir - Not all bubbly has to be white - and if you want to add an extra festive flair, serve pink bubbles! Even my most macho of male friends won't turn this down!
If you like Pinot Noir, then this is for you - light, fruity and fabulous! About $11 a bottle and so worth it. And great to take to a party - you'll be sure to stand out!

Pierre Sparr AOC Alsace Cremant Brut Rose - This one comes in at about $20 a bottle, but again, a great price for AOC brut rose. A lovely salmon pink color and a silky, creamy backbone make this one a real treat. Seriously. So good.

Good at any price
Domaine Chandon - When I went to Napa in May 2011, I was very lucky to get to visit this most excellent winery and sample some tremendous bubbles. While they do make some still wines, their sparkling wines cannot be beat at any price. From their regular brut to their etoile line, anything Chandon makes is great! And it should be as their founders are from the world famous and highly regarded Moet & Chandon in France - the winery whose name is synonymous with high excellence in champagne.

Next time - champagne cocktails!

Votre Santi!

Dee